Skills: Collecting and importing field data
Week 5
This page demonstrates methods for collecting GPS data in the field and importing it to a GIS software of your choice.
Collecting GPS traces
There are many different smart phone applications for both Andorid and iOS devices that will allow you to collect GPS traces and export them as GPX files. These include:
- Strava (iOS and Android): A social app for sharing data on workouts, including running, cycling, hiking, canoeing, skiing, etc. You can record and share the route you took on a “workout” and export your route as a GPX file.
- OsmAnd (iOS and Android): A navigation app build on OpenStreetMap that also will record GPX traces if you enable the “Trip recording” plugin.
- GPX Tracker (iOS): A specialized app that just records GPX traces.
The demonstration below uses the OsmAnd app for iOS.
When you first install and open the app, you’ll see a screen like this:
The first screen will ask you to download a map that corresponds with your current location. This is to allow the app to work offline (without an internet connection). You can skip downloading the map and still record GPS locations, but the app won’t show you a basemap in the background.
Once you’ve downloaded a basemap, the download button becomes a “Go to the map” button. Tap that button.
You’ll see a map of your current surroundings. On the botton right corner of the map, there will be a little crosshair icon. If you tap that, you’ll get a message asking you to give the app permission to use your location.
Tracking your location is the whole point of this exercise. Choose “Allow While Using App” if you intend to keep the app open the whole time you’re collecting data. Otherwise, you want to set it to track your location all the time.
Tap the little hamburger button on the bottom left corner of the map to open up the side menu.
